In 2007, when most high school students were busy with homework and sports, a young Benjamin Eichler was already building something bigger—something that would one day become a tradition across the Murraylands. With nothing more than a deck of UNO cards, a few friends, and a big idea, Benjamin hosted his very first UNO Knockout competition.
Benjamin Eichler of Mannum preparing for the opening of his 2025 UNO Knockout Competition held at the Mannum Hub on Friday, September 12, 2025.
What started as a simple game night has now grown into an eagerly anticipated annual event. In 2025, Benjamin will proudly celebrate his 10th UNO Knockout, a milestone that not only reflects his dedication but also the joy and connection he has brought to hundreds of people over the years.
For Benjamin, UNO is more than just a game. At its core, UNO is a simple yet exciting card game where players race to be the first to shed all their cards, matching colours and numbers while throwing in special cards that can reverse, skip, or completely change the flow of the game. It is unpredictable, light-hearted, and competitive all at once—exactly the kind of atmosphere Benjamin loves to create.
Family dressed for the occasion, Benjamin Eichler, overseeing his dad, Stephen, and mum Chris, all of Mannum, preparing for the opening of the 2025 UNO Knockout Competition held at the Mannum Hub on Friday, September 12, 2025.
“I’ve always thought UNO is a great way to make friends,” Benjamin often says. “It’s easy to play, anyone can join in, and before you know it, you’re laughing and talking with people you may have never met before.”
That belief has carried him from his hometown of Mannum to communities across the Murraylands, where he takes part in different activities, meets new people, and shares his love for the game. Through UNO, Benjamin has built a community that thrives on laughter, connection, and friendly competition.
One of the things Benjamin treasures most is the atmosphere that the Knockouts create. “People just keep coming back,” he says with a smile. “They love the friendliness, the fun, and the energy of it all. That makes me want to keep running them.”
And run them he has. Over the years, the Knockouts have drawn people of all ages and abilities. Children, teenagers, adults, and seniors alike sit down at the same table, shuffle the same deck, and suddenly become part of the same story. Each game is a fresh chance to connect, share a laugh, and even walk away with a new friendship.
Benjamin’s journey has not been without its challenges. He lives with some disabilities, but he does not let that define or limit him. Instead, he has turned his experiences into a source of strength and empathy. His inclusive spirit ensures that his events are welcoming to everyone, no matter their background or ability. “It’s about bringing people together,” Benjamin explains. “Everyone should feel like they belong.”
That attitude has made him a respected figure in his community. Alongside his work with the UNO Knockouts, Benjamin is also involved with Genuine Support Services Australia and Mid Murray Support Services in Mannum. With their support, he continues to find opportunities to give back and play an active role in his community.
What stands out most for Benjamin are the moments of excitement during the competitions—the laughter when a well-timed “Draw Four” changes everything, the cheers when someone wins a close game, and the buzz of conversation around the tables. “It’s amazing to see how competitive people can get,” he says, “but at the same time, it’s always friendly. That’s what makes it special.”
Sarah Maloney of Mannum, decorating the Mannum Hub for the opening of the 2025 UNO Knockout Competition, Friday, September 12, 2025.
The Knockouts are not just about winning. They are about connection. They are about creating memories, building confidence, and giving people something fun to look forward to. And in many ways, they are about Benjamin himself—his passion, his resilience, and his pride in being someone who brings joy to others.
As the 10th UNO Knockout approaches, Benjamin looks back on the journey with gratitude and forward with excitement. The cards will be shuffled, the players will gather, and once again, Mannum will echo with laughter and friendly competition.
For Benjamin Eichler, it is more than a game. It is a legacy of friendship, community, and the belief that something as simple as a deck of cards can change lives—one round at a time.